July 23, 2019
Adam's Blog: Christmas In July
In case you were wondering, it’s 154 days until Christmas.
I love Christmas. I thoroughly enjoy sitting outside those amazing houses that set their lights to music. I can be heard whistling Christmas music year-round. I love watching Will Ferrell run around New York dressed like an elf. I love ugly Christmas sweaters and Christmas trees and spreading Christmas cheer.
Sometimes, though, it’s difficult to remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas amidst the hustle and bustle that comes along with the holiday season. We barely get the presents wrapped and the Christmas cookies made. We run from one Christmas party to another holiday obligation, going through the motions of small talk and forced holiday frivolity. Maybe the diligent among us read the Christmas story from Luke as we gather around the tree Christmas morning.
Still, we try to remember why we celebrate this little baby that goes on to change everything. In December we do our best to remember that Jesus came to earth because of love. Surrounded by holly and mistletoe, we remember that love that is so significant that anyone who believes in Jesus will spend eternity in heaven. We remember as we set up a nativity we put on our shelf that this little baby grows up not to judge the world, but to save the world on the cross. We remember, during this holly jolly time, that the pursuit of peace on earth and goodwill toward men are the standard for which we are to live.
At Christmastime, we remember Jesus coming into the world.
Thing is, this is true the other 364 days of the year. Jesus is still Jesus on May 20 or February 3. He’s worth celebrating in December, April, and July. No matter what day it is, we can remember what Jesus has done, and how it changes our lives for the better.
Instead of waiting the 155 days that are left, maybe we can start living like it is Christmas morning every morning.
Today, pull your family together or call a friend, grab a Bible, read the Christmas story from Luke 2 and remember the “reason for the season.”
Merry Christmas from your friends and family at The Ridge.
Whatever it takes,
Adam
